You have a friend that you hang out with all the time. You have a lot in common, respect one another and have a great time together. You’re good friends. Until the day you realize you have strong, romantic feelings toward your friend. Now what?

Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. —Proverbs 3:5-6, KJV

God is involved with all matters of the heart, from friendships to romantic relationships. God wants us to have good friends and loving spouses. He urges us to pick friends who also walk in faith. When we let God direct our steps, He puts the right people in our path. Allowing God to orchestrate your life ensures you will be living the life He has planned for you. And with God, you can’t go wrong.

Relationships are an important part of life. The Bible is full of stories about people and their relationships, and especially their relationship with God. We share the good, the bad and the ugly with the people who are closest to us. So who we pick for friends or a spouse is crucial to our well-being, spiritual growth and our walk with God. We must choose people who lift us up and encourage us, not bring us down or criticize.

Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. —Romans 12:9, KJV

One of the most important factors in any relationship is communication. Whether you are friends or more than friends, talking to one another is necessary for a good foundation. Any change in a relationship needs to have a solid base to lean on. As you are contemplating moving your relationship to the next level, be sure your friendship is solid.

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. —John 15:13, KJV

If you decide to move your friendship forward to a romantic relationship, and you have determined that your friendship can handle the change (whether good or bad), pray to the Lord and then speak with your friend. In order for a relationship to move forward, both parties need to be on the same page.

Can two walk together, except they be agreed? —Amos 3:3, KJV

Be prepared for any outcome. God puts people in our life but not necessarily forever. Some people are meant for always and some are only meant to stay for a short period of time. God is always working in us; He places people in our lives to help us grow and change for the better. The goal is always to become closer to God and if an individual takes us further away from Him, they are not a permanent fixture. To everything a season under Heaven. Pray for guidance and always trust in the Lord.

Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. —2 Timothy 2:22, KJV

Keep people in your life who follow God, who walk His path with all their heart. If your friend also trusts in the Lord, pray together for guidance on next steps in your relationship. God will not steer you wrong. When two people in a relationship, whether friendly or romantic, place God first, God works in the relationship to make it what it is supposed to be. He touches the hearts of the individuals to change what needs changing. Keep in mind that God’s plan is the best plan. He loves His children too much to not give them the best.